The Dodge Durango has always been one of those SUVs that just refuses to fade away. Launched all the way back in 2011, the current third-generation Durango has outlived three Dodge CEOs, a complete corporate shakeup, and even the formation of Stellantis in 2021. And yet, despite its age, it continues to be a fun-to-drive, capable family SUV.

For 2026, Dodge is giving this long-running model another small, but important, update. And the biggest surprise? The V-6 engine is back.

A Comeback: The Pentastar V-6 Returns

Earlier this year, Dodge announced that the Durango would drop its entry-level 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine and move exclusively to Hemi V-8 power. But in a late November 2025 update, Dodge reversed course. Now, the V-6 is officially returning for the 2026 model year.

The 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 will be available once again in the GT trim, offered in both rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) versions. This gives buyers a more affordable, fuel-friendly option, something the Durango has been missing since Dodge announced its original plan to go V-8-only.

Still the Last Dodge With a V-8 Option

While many automakers are moving away from V-8 engines, Dodge is holding on to them, at least for now. With the rest of the lineup moving toward electrification and smaller engines, the Durango remains Dodge’s final model, still offering a V-8.

Dodge is promoting the AWD Hemi-powered GT as “the most affordable AWD V-8 vehicle in the industry.” However, the V-8 does come at a price. The AWD Hemi GT starts at $44,490, costing about $5,495 more than the base RWD GT model. See more Photos

More Power for R/T: The 392 Hemi Makes a Return

Since the 5.7-liter V-8 now lives in the GT trim, Dodge needed something special to help the R/T stand out. Their answer? The return of the legendary 392 Hemi.

The 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 produces 475 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, bringing serious performance back to the R/T. This engine was last seen in the 2024 AlcHemi edition, and fans will be happy to see it back.

For those who want even more insanity, the Durango SRT Hellcat continues with its supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V-8, making a monstrous 710 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque.

New Packages: More Style, More Customization

Dodge knows the Durango is an old platform, so instead of major redesigns, the brand focuses on cosmetic packages to inject some freshness each year. For 2026, there are several new and updated options:

Blacktop Redline Package (R/T Models)

• Black 20-inch wheels
  
• Black badges
  
• Black SRT exhaust tips
  
• SRT-style front and rear spoilers
  
• Optional Tow N’ Go package adds:
  
  • Wider 20-inch wheels (forged option available)
    
  • Black Brembo brakes
    

Inside, the Blacktop Redline R/T brings:

• SRT front seats
  
• Second-row captain’s chairs
  
• Leather and microsuede upholstery with red stitching
  
• Laser-etched “crypto sweep” interior accents
  

This package costs $3,495 on the R/T Plus and R/T Premium trims, while a lighter version (Blacktop package) for the standard R/T costs $1,695.

GT Blacktop Redline Package

If you prefer style over performance, the GT trim’s version includes:

• Red fender and liftgate stripes
  
• Performance hood
  
• SRT-style spoilers
  
• Leather and suede SRT performance seats
  

SRT Hellcat Jailbreak Option

For $995, the Jailbreak package unlocks:

• 6 wheel designs
  
• 6 color choices for badges and exterior details
  
• 5 stripe colors
  
• 4 brake-caliper colors
  
• 5 seat options
  
• 3 seating configurations
  
• 4 seatbelt color choices
  

This allows buyers to build a Durango that feels more personalized than ever.

2026 Dodge Durango Pricing

Trim Level	MSRP
Durango GT V-6 RWD	$38,995
Durango GT V-6 AWD	$40,995
Durango GT Hemi 5.7 AWD	$44,490
Durango R/T	$51,990
Durango SRT Hellcat	$81,990
Durango SRT Hellcat Jailbreak	$82,985

How Much Longer Will This Generation Last?

Despite its age, Dodge seems determined to keep the current Durango alive a bit longer. The company hasn’t officially announced when the next generation will arrive, but with the return of the V-6 and updated packages, it looks like Dodge plans to keep this SUV running through at least the next couple of years.

For now, the 2026 Dodge Durango remains one of the few SUVs offering a wide range of engines, from an affordable V-6 all the way to a supercharged V-8 beast. And while it’s old, it continues to deliver a mix of practicality, performance, and personality that keeps buyers coming back.

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